Carsley praises England U21s’ ‘brilliant spirit’ after victory over Czech Republic in Euro 2023 opener | OneFootball

England Under-21s head coach Lee Carsley was impressed by the spirit of his squad after their 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic in their Euro 2023 opener.

Chelsea newbie Noni Madueke signalled England’s intent in the early stages when his effort came fired away off the crossbar.

The Czech Republic also had their own chances and Vasil Kusej failed to find the net despite finding himself clean through on goal. The Young Lions kept their composure and make the breakthrough at the beginning of the second half through Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey.

After Anthony Gordon saw a goal ruled out with 20 minutes left for Morgan Gibbs-White blocking a free-kick in the build-up, England continued on the front foot and were eventually rewarded during stoppage time when substitute Emile Smith Rowe slotted home following a counter-attack.

England reached the semi-finals of the tournament in 2017, but failed to make it out of the group stage in both 2019 and 2021.

With holders Germany and Israel having played out a 1-1 draw in Kutaisi, Carsley’s side now find themselves in the driving seat for qualification from Group C.

“I am really pleased to get the result,” Carsley said on UEFA.com.

“The preparation has gone really well, but I didn’t want to jinx us before the game by saying that.

“There is a brilliant spirit within the lads. We feel like we’re in a good place.”

Carsley’s side next face Israel on Sunday before tackling Germany in Batumi on June 28.

Arsenal midfielder Smith Rowe said: “We wanted to make a statement in the first game.

“We knew the Czechs would be really strong, so we are really happy with the three points.”

The Czech Republic will now regroup for their second game against Germany.

“A match like this has to be the best motivation for the future despite our loss,” coach Jan Suchoparek said.

“It is not the end of the tournament for us and I am sure we will fight in the next two matches even more.”

Premier League England